Fordham raised $1,038,706,78 on Giving Tuesday this year—the second-highest amount since the University began participating in the annual fundraising day tradition five years ago.
Held this year on Dec. 1, Giving Tuesday, the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, has become an international day of charitable giving. Since 2015, Fordham has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars each year on this day. This was the second year the total amount raised topped $1 million, after first hitting the mark last year.
The number of individual gifts was higher this year: 1,758 compared to 1,589 last year.
The majority of gifts were directed to the Fordham Fund, which supports Fordham’s greatest needs. Other top areas supported included scholarships, counseling and psychological services, diversity and inclusion initiatives, career services, and athletics. Many of these gifts will support Fordham’s Student Experience campaign.
Elaine Ezrapour, director of the Fordham Fund, noted that the total amount and the number of gifts were especially impressive given the current economic climate.
“Now more than ever, in these uncertain times, having flexible dollars allows Fordham to quickly address evolving needs on campus,” she said.
Senior Bella Eitner, student giving day chair at Rose Hill, said that having so many donors invest in Fordham means a lot because it demonstrates that people “share the same love for Fordham as us students.”
“I’m a student-athlete on the cheerleading team, and we hit our goal twice in one day. To know we are constantly supported, even during these hard times due to COVID-19, confirms my decision to go to Fordham was the best one for me.”
In addition to opening their wallets, donors also shared their gratitude on the Student Philanthropy Committee’s virtual Giving Tree.
“So thankful for Fordham’s student leaders! They volunteer hours of their time to make Fordham a better place. Thanks for leading the way!” one donor wrote.
“Once a RAM always a RAM! Fordham saw me grow up, succeed academically, land a top job right out of college and get married at the Rose Hill Chapel. I am beyond thankful!” wrote another.
And from a grateful student: “I am so thankful for all of the memories of love and joy that I have created with my closest friends these last four years at Fordham!”
